SUGAR CLINICS NEAR ME Use tricks to prevent overeating. Sometimes sneaky strategies can help keep you from overdoing it on diet-damaging foods. Try the following: Fill up on low-calorie foods first. “Start every meal with the foods on your plate that are lowest in calories, ” suggests McLaughlin. Non-starchy vegetables make the perfect low-calorie starter. By the time you get to the other foods, you won’t be so hungry. Change your salad dressing system. Instead of sprinkling or pouring dressing over your salad, dip your fork into a side dish of dressing and then your salad before each bite. You'll be amazed by how much less you use and how many calories you save. Take up a busy-hands hobby. If you’re idle, you’ll be more prone to eating. Keep busy with activities like walking, knitting, scrapbooking, doing crossword puzzles, or gardening. Carry a toothbrush and toothpaste. Keep them in your purse or briefcase. When cravings hit, brushing your teeth with peppermint-flavored toothpaste can dampen your desire to eat. Arrive fashionably late to parties. Without as much time near the buffet table and calorie-rich appetizers, you’ll likely eat less.